23 studies measuring the possible risk factors or the prevalence of MSDs among dental professionals

Systematic review of non-randomized trials

Key results

Prevalence of general musculoskeletal problems among practicing clinicians ranged from 64% to 93%, with the most prevalent area of pain being the back (36.3-60.1%) and the neck (19.8-85%) for dentist and the hand and wrist regions being the most prevalent regions for dental hygienists (60–69.5%). Musculoskeletal problems represent a significant burden for the dental profession, as confirmed by the systematic review.

430 dentists in Greece with at least 1 year of dental practice experience

Questionnaire Survey - Nordic

Key results

A random selection of 490 dentists, from 1063; with an 88% response rate, were included in the study. Logistic regression and multivariate analysis revealed that 62% of dentists had at least one musculoskeletal problem, 30% had chronic problems, 16% had spells of pain and absence, and 32% received medical care. Factors of physical load were linked with back pain (OR = 1.59), shoulder pain (OR = 2.57), and wrist/hand pain (OR = 3.46). Occupation as the origin of the disorder was reported by 57% for lower back pain and 79% for all other disorder pain. 30% of the dentists had one complaint that lasted for longer than a month. All results reported were at a 95% CI.

Validity: Both of the studies had a large dentist group, with the Systemic Review narrowing down the search results to 23 studies from the initial 95 titles based on relevance, the quality of study and its references, and whether the study measured the prevalence of MSD or possible risk factors. The Nordic Questionnaire Survey measured the musculoskeletal complaints of 430 dentists with at least 1 year of experience and had a response rate of 88%.
Perspective: Overall, I found that the studies had sufficient experimental groups and provided greater insight into the prevalence of MSD among dentists. However, studies that include consideration of new technological and ergonomic advancements are needed to compare their impact on the current prevalence of MSD among dental practitioners as compared to earlier studies.

Applicability

Based on the studies, more than 50% of dentists experienced some form of MSD. For dental students and young practicing dentists, this highlights the need to identify ways of reducing the negative impact of MSDs. These findings make it incumbent on dental practitioners to apply preventive and ergonomically favorable techniques early on and therefore be able to have a longer and more satisfying career.

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